Reconstructive and Reparative Surgery

Reconstructive and reparative surgeries cover a broad spectrum of surgical procedures. These types of procedures differ from those, which are purely cosmetic because reconstructive and reparative surgeries improve function as well as appearance. Patients of all ages may seek reconstructive or reparative surgery as a result of congenital (birth) defects, development abnormalities, disease, or trauma (injury).

Our practice focuses primarily on the reparative surgery of the hand and cleft lip and palate surgery. However, the surgeons of Plastic Surgery Associates have performed other reconstructive and reparative procedures such as skin grafts, scar revisions, and hand and wrist surgery.

Cleft lip when a child is born with a separation in the upper lip is one of the most common and corrected congenital defects. Surgery is generally performed when the child is 10 weeks old to develop a more symmetrical appearance. Cleft palate surgery is a more extensive procedure and therefore surgeons usually hold off until the child is closer to a year old. Since the lip and palate mature separately, it is possible for a child to develop either defect or both.

Reconstructive hand surgery is performed in cases in which normal use is inhibited or significant damage has been caused. During surgery bones, muscles, tendons, joints or skin may be replaced or reconstructed on the hand. In some cases, the wrist may also require attention during surgery to reconstruct hands and wrists that are damaged by accident or disease.

Hand Defects

• Severe arthritis
• Syndactyly (webbed fingers)
• Polydactyly (extra fingers)
• Carpal tunnel
• Trigger fingers

Skin grafts may be performed during reparative surgery by using skin from another area of the body to replace damaged skin. The appearance of a scar may be improved with a scar revision. In this procedure, the scar tissue is removed and will provide more mobility as well as create a more pleasing aesthetic sense.

Reconstructive and reparative surgery specifics are heavily dependent upon individual circumstances so it is important to ask questions during consultations with your surgeon. It is important to remember that although surgery can make many improvements perfection cannot be achieved.

If you are considering reconstructive or reparative surgery, call our office at 233-5025 to arrange a consultation.